The Blog at MSPC

The inaugural poll, conducted January 2–9, 2026 among 800 registered voters in Washington, shows voters focused on kitchen-table issues—particularly the economy, taxes, and state spending—while also expressing strong interest in education reforms and greater transparency in public schools.

During his recent speech at the Associated Taxpayers of Idaho (ATI) conference, Governor Little noted how “C.O.W.s” are one of the state’s current challenges, but also an opportunity.  

Roughly three out of four businesses say they’ve been hit directly by the recent sales tax on services or B&O tax increases. More than half are raising prices because of it. The rest are just absorbing the blow and hoping things calm down.

Taxpayers across Washington state have had a rough go as of late. New gas taxes, increased capital gains income taxes, and higher B&O taxes are hitting the wallets of many across the Evergreen State.

Add outrageous cell phone taxes to the major financial difference between living in states like Idaho and Montana, versus Washington state.

If Washington's government won’t deliver savings, efficiency, and accountability—Idaho will.

One very concerning proposal that may be flying under the radar compared to the other provisions is a section in the House version of the BBB that would impose a 600% tax increase on charitable foundations.

The clear message is Americans are voting with their feet.  

When Fremont County voters in Wyoming were asked to pass an initiative in 2020 to dedicate ½ percent of the sales tax collected in the county to economic development, they were told it was essential to job, revenue and tax growth.

There was a lot of intrigue in Washington state as citizens and businesses waited to see what Governor Ferguson would do with the record tax increases lawmakers sent to his desk this year. Despite speculation that the new Governor may veto these massive tax increases, in the end, he signed them into law on May 20.

The 2025 Legislative Session is officially over in Montana. Lawmakers in the Treasure State focused on several priorities during their time in Helena, including record income tax relief, reducing business costs with unemployment insurance reform, and clarifying environmental laws in response to court rulings.

Americans are feeling a pain at the pump. But who is to blame for the higher prices? Government taxes and fees can make up a significant...

There's always been a difference between Idaho and Washington prices - after all, Washington's gas tax is nearly 20 cents more per gallon.

The Montana Senate is now considering a bill that would offer special needs children access to ESA worth roughly$6,816.

Ten years ago, Idaho was spending $1.3 billion. Over the past decade, K-12 state spending has ballooned 106.2%.